How to Leverage Corporate Match Programs

In the world of fundraising, corporate match programs can be a game changer for nonprofits.

These programs allow companies to match the donations made by their employees to eligible nonprofit organizations, effectively doubling the impact of individual contributions.

But how can your nonprofit tap into this powerful resource?

In this post, we’ll explore practical strategies for leveraging corporate match programs, share compelling stories, and provide actionable tips to help you maximize this opportunity.

Before we get into the strategies, let’s clarify what corporate match programs are.

These programs are initiatives established by companies to encourage philanthropy among their employees.

When an employee makes a donation to a qualifying nonprofit, the company matches that contribution, usually dollar for dollar, although some companies may offer a different ratio.

Why Should Nonprofits Care?

You might wonder, “Why should I care about corporate match programs?” Here’s why:

1. Increased Donations: By encouraging your supporters to utilize corporate matching gifts, you can significantly increase the total amount of donations you receive.
2. Employee Engagement: Companies often highlight their commitment to social responsibility. By partnering with them, you can foster a stronger relationship with local businesses.
3. Donor Retention: When donors see their contributions doubled, they feel more engaged and are likely to continue supporting your organization in the future.

Now that we’ve established the importance of corporate match programs, let’s explore some effective strategies for leveraging them.

Strategy 1: Educate Your Donors

Education is key to helping your donors understand how corporate match programs work. Many people may not even realize that their employer offers a matching gift program!

Practical Example:

Create a simple, engaging flyer or infographic that explains the process of corporate matching gifts. Distribute this to your donors via email, social media, or during fundraising events. You might include a checklist that outlines steps they need to take, such as:

1. Confirming their employer’s matching gift policy.
2. Submitting the necessary forms to initiate the match.
3. Following up to ensure the match is processed.

Practical Example:

Let’s consider the story of Maria, a dedicated supporter of her local animal shelter.

When Maria learned that her employer had a matching gift program, she was excited. However, she wasn’t quite sure how to navigate the process.

After receiving an informative flyer from the shelter, she felt empowered to take action.

Maria made a $100 donation, and her employer matched it, doubling the impact of her contribution.

Thanks to the shelter’s effort to educate donors, they received a total of $200 instead of just $100!

Strategy 2: Promote Corporate Match Opportunities

Once your donors understand the process, it’s time to promote these opportunities. Make it a part of your fundraising campaigns.

Practical Example:

Include information about corporate match programs in your email newsletters, on your website, and during fundraising events.

Highlight specific examples of how matching gifts can amplify the impact of donations.

For instance, you might say, “Did you know that if you donate $50, your employer could match that with another $50, bringing your total contribution to $100? That means more resources for our programs!”

Use eye-catching graphics that illustrate the impact of matched donations, and include testimonials from donors who have successfully utilized the matching gift process.

Strategy 3: Create a Dedicated Page on Your Website

A dedicated webpage for corporate matching gifts can serve as a central hub for information.

Practical Example:

Design a page that explains how the program works, lists companies that match donations, and provides clear instructions for your supporters.

Here’s what to include:

• Overview of matching gift programs: Briefly explain what they are and how they benefit both donors and your organization.
• List of companies: Create a section with logos of local and national companies that offer matching gifts. This not only serves as a resource but can also encourage donors to engage if they see their employer represented.
• Submission process: Detail the steps donors need to follow, along with any forms they may need to fill out.

Strategy 4: Follow Up with Donors

After a successful fundraising campaign, it’s important to follow up with your donors and remind them about corporate matching gifts.

Practical Example:

Send a thank-you email to your donors acknowledging their contributions. In this email, include a gentle reminder about the matching gift program.

You might say, “Thank you for your generous support! Don’t forget that your donation could be matched by your employer. It’s an easy way to make your impact even greater!”

Additionally, consider creating a thank-you video where you express gratitude and explain the potential for matching gifts. This personal touch can inspire donors to take action.

Strategy 5: Engage with Corporate Partners

Developing relationships with local businesses can open doors for more effective matching gift programs.

Practical Example:

Consider organizing networking events or corporate volunteer days where your nonprofit engages directly with local companies.

Invite businesses to learn more about your mission and how they can get involved, including matching gift opportunities.

You could host an event where employees can volunteer at your organization, and during this event, provide information about corporate match programs.

Engaging employees directly can spark interest in their employer’s matching gift policies and create a sense of community around your cause.

Strategy 6: Utilize Social Media

Social media is a powerful tool for reaching a broader audience and raising awareness about matching gifts.

Practical Example:

Create engaging posts that highlight the benefits of corporate matching gifts. Use eye-catching visuals and statistics to illustrate how much more a donor’s gift could be worth with a match.

Encourage your followers to share their own stories about using matching gifts, which can inspire others to do the same.

You can also run a social media campaign during major fundraising events, encouraging supporters to donate and share their matching gift information.

Consider a hashtag like #MatchYourGift, which can help spread the word and create a sense of community among your supporters.

Strategy 7: Leverage Technology

Utilizing technology can streamline the process of tracking matching gifts and simplifying the submission process for donors.

Practical Example:

Consider investing in a donor management system that includes features for tracking matching gifts.

These systems can help you keep records of which donors have eligible matching gifts, making it easier to follow up with them after they’ve donated.

Additionally, you can integrate a matching gift tool on your website that allows donors to easily check if their employer offers a matching gift program by simply entering their company name.

This can save time for both donors and your organization.

Strategy 8: Train Your Team

Ensure that your staff and volunteers are well-informed about corporate match programs and how they can assist donors in the process.

Practical Example:

Hold training sessions to educate your team about matching gift programs, focusing on key talking points they can share with donors. Provide them with materials such as brochures and FAQs that they can use to help answer donor questions.

By equipping your team with knowledge, they can confidently engage with donors, explain the benefits, and guide them through the matching gift process, making it seamless and straightforward.

Conclusion

Leveraging corporate match programs can significantly enhance your nonprofit’s fundraising efforts.

Remember the story of Maria? Her experience is just one example of how effective these strategies can be in amplifying the impact of your donors’ contributions.

When you harness the power of corporate match programs, you’re not just increasing donations; you’re building a community of engaged supporters who feel valued and connected to your mission.

Call to Action:

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